Monica, O My Darling, a 2022 Netflix film directed by Vasan Bala, is a thrilling adaptation of Keigo Higashino’s celebrated novel, Burutasu No Shinzou. Both the film and the book offer gripping narratives that keep audiences on the edge of their seats. Let’s delve into the world of Monica, O My Darling, exploring the book and movie summary, interesting curiosities, memorable characters, soundtrack details, and more.
Book Summary of “Burutasu No Shinzou” by Keigo Higashino
Burutasu No Shinzou is a captivating novel penned by renowned author Keigo Higashino. Set against the backdrop of Tokyo’s bustling metropolis, the book primarily revolves around the life of Jayant Arkhedkar, a cunning businessman who finds himself entangled in a web of deceit and corruption.
Narrated from various perspectives, the story unfolds with Jayant’s mysterious disappearance, leading to an intense investigation that uncovers deep secrets and illicit dealings. As the plot thickens, the characters grapple with their inner demons, navigating through a world rife with betrayal and power struggles.
Movie Summary of “Monica, O My Darling”
Adapting Higashino’s thrilling narrative, Vasan Bala’s “Monica, O My Darling” takes the essence of the book and beautifully transforms it into a film. Set in the heart of Mumbai’s corporate milieu, the movie follows the story of Monica Machado (played by Huma S. Qureshi), a determined woman who finds herself at the center of a high-stakes game of deceit and power.
The film mirrors the book’s plotline, injecting its unique cinematic flair while preserving the essence of the original tale. With a star-studded cast that includes Radhika Apte, Vaani Kapoor, and others, the movie succeeds in delivering a riveting cinematic experience.
When and Where Does the Story Take Place?
Both the book and the film are set in the corporate world, with the former taking place in Tokyo and the latter in Mumbai. Spanning over a few months, the story unfolds in the present day, encapsulating the ruthless corporate dynamics and the relentless pursuit of power.
Film Locations of “Monica, O My Darling”
Although the movie is set in Mumbai, several scenes were filmed in other parts of India to capture the essence of the city’s vibrant culture. Some of the notable shooting locations include the bustling streets of Mumbai, the grand corporate towers, and the opulent interiors of the city’s upscale residences.
Who’s Who in “Burutasu No Shinzou” and Its Movie Adaptation
The cast of Burutasu No Shinzou and its movie adaptation, “Monica, O My Darling,” features a variety of intriguing and well-crafted characters:
- Jayant Arkhedkar: The ambitious businessman who finds himself embroiled in a complex web of deceit. In the film, this character is portrayed by an Indian actor (yet to be announced).
- Monica Machado: Monica, played by Huma S. Qureshi, is a strong-willed woman at the heart of the story. Her journey forms the crux of the narrative, making her a pivotal character in the film.
- Other Characters: The narrative is further enriched by a host of supporting characters, each contributing to the plot’s complexity and depth. These include the ruthless corporate tycoons, the loyal allies, and the cunning adversaries, painting a vivid picture of the corporate world’s ruthless dynamics.
Memorable Quotes from “Monica, O My Darling”
“Monica, O My Darling” is filled with memorable quotes that encapsulate its themes of ambition, deceit, and power. Here are a few noteworthy lines from the movie:
- “In this city, it’s not about who you are, but who you know.”
- “Power isn’t given, it’s taken.”
- “In the game of deceit, trust is the first casualty.”
Soundtrack by Achint Thakkar: Biography and Other Works
The compelling soundtrack of “Monica, O My Darling” is composed by Achint Thakkar. Born in 1985, Thakkar comes from a musical family and has made a name for himself in the Indian film industry. His score for “Monica, O My Darling” perfectly complements the film’s intense narrative, accentuating the story’s emotional highs and lows.
Some of Thakkar’s other notable works include the soundtracks for “Mirzapur,” “Sacred Games,” and “The Last Hour.” His unique musical style, characterized by blending traditional Indian sounds with modern electronic music, has made him a sought-after composer in Bollywood.
Curiosities about “Monica, O My Darling”
Here are a few fascinating curiosities about “Monica, O My Darling”:
- The film marks the first collaboration between Vasan Bala and Netflix.
- Despite being based on a Japanese novel, the movie is entirely set in India, showcasing Mumbai’s corporate world.
- The film’s title, “Monica, O My Darling,” is a nod to a popular song from a classic Bollywood film.
Tips for Cosplay and Dressing like Jayant Arkhedkar and Monica Machado
If you’re a fan of “Monica, O My Darling” and wish to cosplay as Jayant Arkhedkar or Monica Machado, here are a few tips:
- Jayant Arkhedkar: Opt for a sophisticated business suit, complemented by a crisp shirt and tie. Don’t forget to add a pair of stylish spectacles to complete the look.
- Monica Machado: Monica’s style is chic and elegant. Choose a fashionable dress, paired with high heels and some classy accessories. A stylish handbag would be a great addition to the ensemble.
Biography of Keigo Higashino, the Author of “Burutasu No Shinzou”
Keigo Higashino, born in 1958, is a Japanese author renowned for his mystery novels. He has published several bestselling books, many of which have been adapted into films and TV series.
Higashino’s writing career began in the 1980s, and he has since become one of Japan’s most popular authors. His books, including Burutasu No Shinzou, have been translated into several languages, earning him a global following.
Keigo Higashino’s 5 Best Works
Here are five of Higashino’s best works:
- “The Devotion of Suspect X”: A gripping thriller that explores the lengths one man will go to protect the woman he loves.
- “Malice”: A complex mystery where a famed author’s murder leads to a web of deceit and lies.
- “Journey Under the Midnight Sun”: A long-spanning tale of two children connected by a chilling murder mystery.
- “Salvation of a Saint”: A murder mystery that delves into the human heart and the lengths it will go for love.
- “The Name of the Game is A Kidnapping”: A thrilling tale of a brilliant kidnapper and the man determined to bring him down.
5 Other Media Adaptations by Vasan Bala
Vasan Bala, the director of “Monica, O My Darling,” has a keen eye for storytelling. Here are five other notable media adaptations by Bala:
- “Raman Raghav 2.0”: A chilling tale of a serial killer’s life, based on real events.
- “Peddlers”: A gripping narrative that intertwines the lives of three individuals in Mumbai.
- “The Lunchbox”: Bala served as a co-writer for this critically-acclaimed film about a misplaced lunchbox and an unlikely friendship.
- “Bombay Velvet”: A crime thriller set in the 1960s, exploring the city’s evolution through the eyes of a boxer and a jazz singer.
- “Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota”: A quirky action-comedy about a young man with a rare disorder that prevents him from feeling pain.
10 Similar Movies to “Monica, O My Darling”
If you enjoyed “Monica, O My Darling,” here are 10 similar movies that delve into themes of deceit, power, and redemption:
- “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo”
- “Gone Girl”
- “The Usual Suspects”
- “Fight Club”
- “Se7en”
- “Memento”
- “Oldboy”
- “The Sixth Sense”
- “Shutter Island”
- “Inception”
Book Club Questions for “Burutasu No Shinzou”
Here are some thought-provoking questions for book club discussions about “Burutasu No Shinzou”:
- How does the theme of power permeate throughout the book?
- Discuss the significance of Jayant’s character and his impact on the story.
- How does the setting of Tokyo contribute to the plot?
- What commentary does Higashino offer about the corporate world through the narrative?
- Discuss the impact of the ending. Did it meet your expectations?
10 Similar Novels to “Burutasu No Shinzou”
If you enjoyed “Burutasu No Shinzou,” you might also like these novels:
- “Gone Girl” by Gillian Flynn
- “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” by Stieg Larsson
- “The Da Vinci Code” by Dan Brown
- “The Silence of the Lambs” by Thomas Harris
- “Inferno” by Dan Brown
- “The Cuckoo’s Calling” by Robert Galbraith
- “The Woman in the Window” by A.J. Finn
- “The Girl on the Train” by Paula Hawkins
- “Into the Water” by Paula Hawkins
- “Big Little Lies” by Liane Moriarty
Parent Guide for “Monica, O My Darling”
As a parent, it’s important to consider the content of “Monica, O My Darling” before watching it with your children. The film contains scenes of violence, strong language, and adult themes, and is rated for viewers above 18. Ensure that your child is mature enough to handle such content and is able to engage in discussions about the themes and messages conveyed.
Conclusion
“Monica, O My Darling” is a cinematic adaptation of Keigo Higashino’s book that delivers a riveting experience. With its engaging narrative, compelling performances, and gripping soundtrack, the film is a must-watch for all movie lovers. Whether you choose to explore the book or watch the movie, you are sure to be left in awe of the storytelling prowess of Higashino and Bala. So, gear up to dive into a world of deceit, power, and redemption, and prepare to be captivated by the tale of Monica, O My Darling.
